Simple sourdough starter for beginners using flour and water. This step-by-step method helps you create a bubbly, active starter at home for baking.

Scale

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (or bread flour)

1 cup whole wheat flour (optional, for stronger fermentation)

Filtered or dechlorinated water, room temperature

1. Day 1: Mix 50g flour with 50g filtered water in a clean jar. Stir well and cover loosely for 24 hours.

2. Day 2: Stir the starter. Bubbles may appear but are not required yet.

3. Day 3: Discard half. Add 50g flour and 50g water. Stir and cover.

4. Day 4: Discard half again. Feed with 50g flour and 50g water.

5. Day 5: Discard half and feed again. Starter should begin doubling in size.

6. Day 6: Feed twice. Morning discard half and feed. Evening repeat feeding.

Keep starter at room temperature between 70–78°F.

Use filtered water for best results.

Starter should smell slightly tangy, not unpleasant.

If slow, try whole wheat flour to boost activity.

Keywords: sourdough starter, homemade sourdough starter, bubbly starter guide, diy bread starter